Riser Fill-Up Valve

Riser Collapse Protection

The Hydril Riser Fill-Up Valve prevents collapse of the subsea riser wall due to a sudden evacuation of drilling fluids from the riser. Sudden evacuations can occur during unplanned events such as a disconnect of the LMRP or a failure in the lower riser section. The Hydril Riser Fill-Up Valve backfills the drilling riser with seawater as heavier drilling fluid evacuates the riser from the bottom. This prevents creation of a vacuum inside the riser that would collapse it.  The Fill-Up Valve can be set to open automatically due to a sudden pressure differential inside and outside the riser, or it may be operated manually.

  • Four independent spools make operation fault-tolerant.  The valve will perform its designed function even if one spool fails to operate.
  • All moving parts are internal. There is no rising stem or other external moving part.
  • Valve will pass through a 49-1/2" or larger rotary table.
  • Actuation can be automatic (pressure balanced) or manual.
  • In-line valve design works with any pin and box riser connections.

SELECTED Engineering Data:

  • Designed and manufactured in accordance with API 16F, Specification for Marine Riser Equipment, 1st edition, Aug. 1, 2004.
  • All internal components meet the requirements of NACE MR0175, Sulfide Stress Cracking Resistant Metallic Materials for Oil Field Equipment.
  • Operating chambers are rated for 0-3,000 psi operating pressure.
    • Through bore: 21 inches.
    • Seal areas are Inconel®-lined.

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